When your dog gets wet — whether it’s from a bath, a swim, or a walk in the rain — it’s crucial to dry them thoroughly. Properly drying your dog serves several purposes. It helps maintain their body temperature, prevents matting and tangling of their fur, reduces the risk of bacterial growth and potential skin infections, and eliminates that unmistakable “wet dog” smell. Plus, while drying your dog’s coat, you have the perfect opportunity to closely inspect their skin for any abnormalities, such as lumps, bumps, scrapes, or irritations that may require veterinary attention. There are various methods for drying your dog, and you can train them to become comfortable with towel-drying or blow-drying.
Know Your Dog’s Coat Type
It’s advisable to dry off any wet dog, regardless of their breed, size, or coat type. However, some dogs may require more time and effort to dry thoroughly than others. Dogs with shorter coats may dry quicker and easier, while breeds with long or double coats (like Australian Shepherds) , or those with cords, may need more attention. The thicker the coat, the more vital it is to dry them effectively to prevent tangles and mats. For short-coated dogs, a regular dog towel may suffice. However, for dogs with longer or denser coats, a combination of towel-drying followed by the use of a dog dryer may be more effective.
Help Your Dog Get Used to Being Handled
Not all dogs are comfortable with being touched, especially in sensitive areas like their face, paws, or legs. To address this, you can gradually acclimate your dog to being handled, respecting their comfort levels and using positive reinforcement techniques. Starting with gentle touches and offering treats can help your dog develop a positive association with the drying process and being handled.
How to Dry Your Dog with a Towel
Choose towels such as microfiber towels, as they are lightweight and absorbent. Instead of vigorously rubbing your dog with the towel, which can lead to tangles and mats, gently press the towel into their fur to absorb excess moisture. Additionally, introduce your dog to the towel gradually, allowing them to become comfortable with its presence before starting the drying process.
How to Dry Your Dog With a Blow-Dryer
While towel-drying may suffice for some dogs, others with thicker coats may benefit from using a dog dryer to remove excess moisture. However, it’s essential to choose a dryer specifically designed for dogs, as human blow-dryers may not be suitable and could potentially harm your dog’s skin. Introduce your dog to the dryer gradually, using positive reinforcement techniques to help them associate the dryer with rewards and treats. Start with the dryer turned off and gradually increase exposure while monitoring your dog’s comfort level. Always avoid using heat on your dog’s fur, and keep the dryer away from their face and ears to prevent injury.
